The Libyans, known in the Bible as Put and Lubim, were an ancient people who inhabited the regions west of Egypt, primarily in what is now modern-day Libya. They were a prominent North African civilization with a history of warfare, trade, and political influence. The Bible refers to the Libyans multiple times, often in connection with military conflicts, alliances, and divine judgment.
The Libyans played a significant role in the biblical narrative, serving as mercenaries in Egyptian and Near Eastern armies, resisting foreign domination, and ultimately being subject to God’s sovereign plan. Though they were mighty warriors, their fate was intertwined with the destinies of greater empires, demonstrating that no nation stands outside of God’s control.
Words: 1242 / Time to read: 7 minutes
Who Were the Libyans?
The Libyans were descendants of Put, one of the sons of Ham and grandson of Noah (Genesis 10:6). In biblical genealogies, Put is often listed alongside other African and Near Eastern peoples, including Cush (Ethiopia), Mizraim (Egypt), and Canaan. The descendants of Put spread across North Africa, primarily settling west of Egypt in the territory later known as Libya.
Throughout history, the Libyans were known for their fierce warriors, desert-based nomadic lifestyle, and involvement in Mediterranean and African trade. Egyptian records describe them as both allies and enemies, sometimes serving as mercenaries in Pharaohs’ armies and at other times rebelling against Egyptian rule.
The biblical term Lubim (Hebrew: לוּבִים) is used interchangeably with Put in some passages, particularly when referring to Libyan warriors. This suggests that the Lubim were either a specific subgroup of the Libyans or a broader term encompassing various tribes of North Africa.
Geographic Location and Cultural Practices
The Libyans primarily resided in the coastal and desert regions west of Egypt, covering much of modern Libya, Tunisia, and parts of Algeria. Their land was characterized by arid deserts, fertile coastal plains, and strategic trade routes connecting Africa with the Mediterranean world.
The Libyan way of life was diverse. Many lived as semi-nomadic herders, raising cattle and engaging in limited agriculture along the northern coast. Others were involved in maritime trade, exchanging goods such as gold, ivory, salt, and exotic animals with Egypt, Phoenicia, and the Greek world.
Militarily, the Libyans were well known for their archers and charioteers. They frequently served as mercenaries in Egyptian, Assyrian, and Babylonian armies, a role similar to that of the Kushites. Some groups established independent kingdoms, which occasionally challenged Egyptian dominance. The Libyans even ruled over Egypt at one point during the 22nd and 23rd Dynasties (circa 945–715 BC), known as the Libyan Pharaohs.
Despite their influence, they were often caught in the power struggles between larger empires, which shaped their fate in biblical prophecy and historical events.
Biblical References to the Libyans
1. The Genealogy of Put (Genesis 10:6, Ezekiel 27:10, Nahum 3:9)
Put is named among the descendants of Ham, along with Cush, Mizraim, and Canaan. This indicates their shared African heritage and connection to other significant biblical nations.
- Genesis 10:6 – “The sons of Ham: Cush, Egypt, Put and Canaan.”
- Ezekiel 27:10 – The Libyans (Put) are mentioned as warriors in the service of Tyre, a major Phoenician city.
- Nahum 3:9 – The Libyans were part of a military alliance that included Egypt and Cush before facing divine judgment.
These references highlight their military reputation and their ties to larger regional powers.
2. The Libyans in Egyptian Armies (2 Chronicles 12:3, 2 Chronicles 16:8, Jeremiah 46:9, Nahum 3:9)
The Libyans frequently served as mercenaries in Egyptian and foreign armies, often playing key roles in military campaigns.
- 2 Chronicles 12:3 – When Pharaoh Shishak invaded Judah, he had Libyan warriors among his forces.
- 2 Chronicles 16:8 – King Asa of Judah is reminded that God had once delivered him from a massive army that included Libyans and Cushites.
- Jeremiah 46:9 – The Libyans are listed alongside Egyptians and Cushites as part of an army facing Babylonian conquest.
- Nahum 3:9 – In the prophecy against Nineveh, the Libyans are mentioned as part of a coalition that could not withstand God’s judgment.
These passages demonstrate that, despite their military might, the Libyans were not immune to divine intervention and judgment.
Religious Beliefs and Deities
The Libyans had a polytheistic belief system, similar to that of their Egyptian neighbors, but with unique elements. They worshipped a mix of Egyptian, Berber, and Phoenician deities, adapting their religious practices over time.
Some of their prominent deities included:
- Amon (Amun-Ra) – The Libyan Pharaohs of Egypt adopted the worship of Amon as a central god, integrating Egyptian religious traditions into their own.
- Tanit and Baal Hammon – These Phoenician deities were popular among Libyan coastal communities influenced by Carthage, a Phoenician colony.
- Neith – A war goddess originally worshipped in Egypt, but adopted by Libyan tribes.
Their religious practices included animal sacrifices, ancestor veneration, and the use of oracles for divine guidance. Some Libyan tribes also practiced tattooing and body markings as part of their spiritual traditions.
Libyan Individuals in the Bible
1. Libyan Mercenaries in Egypt (2 Chronicles 12:3, 2 Chronicles 16:8)
As mentioned earlier, the Libyans frequently fought in foreign armies, serving Egyptian Pharaohs and other rulers.
2. The Prophetic Judgment Against Put (Ezekiel 30:5, Jeremiah 46:9, Nahum 3:9)
Several prophecies declare divine judgment on the Libyans due to their alliances with Egypt and their participation in military campaigns against Israel and other nations.
- Ezekiel 30:5 – Put (Libya) is listed among those who would suffer judgment alongside Egypt.
- Jeremiah 46:9 – The Libyans are mentioned as doomed warriors fighting for Egypt.
These prophecies emphasize that no nation, no matter how strong, is beyond God’s judgment.
Conclusion
The Libyans were a formidable people in biblical history, known for their military strength, economic contributions, and deep connections to neighboring civilizations. As descendants of Put, they occupied North Africa and played a crucial role in the military and political affairs of the ancient world. Their warriors were highly sought after, serving as mercenaries in Egypt, Assyria, and Babylon. At times, they ruled over Egypt, leaving a legacy that shaped the region’s history.
Despite their might, the Bible presents the Libyans as subject to divine judgment. Their reliance on military alliances with Egypt, Cush, and other nations ultimately did not protect them from God’s decrees. The prophetic warnings against Put serve as a reminder that human power is fleeting, and no nation can stand against the sovereignty of God.
However, their story is not merely one of judgment but also one of potential redemption. Just as God extended His grace to individuals from other nations—such as the Ethiopian eunuch in Acts—so too could the Libyans have turned to the Lord. Their legacy is a testament to the biblical truth that military strength, political alliances, and earthly wealth cannot replace faith in the one true God.
Ezekiel 30:5
“Cush and Libya, Lydia and all Arabia, Kub and the people of the covenant land will fall by the sword along with Egypt.”
All Scripture quoted from:
New International Version (NIV)
Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
